A local community group has been named a finalist in the “Live Here, Love Here” community awards and expressed that they are “incredibly humbled and honoured.”
The awards evening took place on Thursday, February 6th, and was presented by the well-known TV personality Joe Mahon. During the event, Tidy Banbridge was recognised as the runner-up in the Community Champion category.
Tidy Banbridge is a dedicated group focused on keeping the town of Banbridge clean and beautiful. Made up of passionate volunteers, they engage in various activities aimed at enhancing the local environment and fostering community pride.
One of their primary initiatives is litter picking. Volunteers regularly come together to clean up public spaces, parks, and streets, ensuring that litter does not detract from the area’s natural beauty. Their efforts not only improve Banbridge’s appearance but also promote environmental awareness, encouraging residents to take responsibility for their surroundings.
Posting on social media a spokesperson for the community group said; “This award is for every single volunteer who has turned up to show support for their community, and for every single volunteer who gave their time to create greener, cleaner spaces for residents to enjoy”.
In addition to litter picking, Tidy Banbridge focuses on beautification projects, such as planting flower beds. By creating vibrant displays in public spaces, the group enhances the aesthetic appeal of the area.
Past Endeavours
Tidy Banbridge has a history of successful initiatives aimed at beautifying the town. In 2024, the group took on the task of tidying and planting the flower bed on Dromore Street. With support from local businesses like J McCourt Furniture Banbridge, Dalys Pharmacy, and WF Landscapes, the previously neglected flower bed was transformed into a vibrant and welcoming space.
The “Live Here, Love Here” initiative has garnered significant support from various local councils, the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, and the Northern Ireland Housing Executive. This collaborative effort aims to promote community involvement and environmental stewardship across Northern Ireland.
The initiative is backed by nine local councils, each committed to enhancing the quality of life in their respective areas. These councils recognise the importance of fostering a sense of pride in local communities while encouraging residents to take an active role in maintaining their surroundings. By working together, they aim to create cleaner, greener, and more sustainable environments.
Read more: Local environment Group ‘Tidy Banbridge’ set to do it again with litter pick | UrbanABC